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ART with ELDERS
Above image in loving memory of Liz Cooper
Prisms of Color: Memoirs of Saging
When I’m an old lady, I shall wear the color of a compassionate heart. I shall glisten and illuminate; I will be a creative beacon to light the path of generations to come.
Carl Jung once wrote, “I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” This characteristic attitude shines through the vitality of the staff at The Meadows. Apart from a 2-year Covid hiatus, I have been facilitating a Felting and Fibers class at this Boulder residential facility for over 10 years. My focus currently, is with individuals in Assisted Living and Memory Care. Team effort is a cornerstone for the support we provide. Allowing spacious love to become the bedrock foundation of the service and care we offer, yields richness.
“Why are we coming here? We’re going to do what? I’ve never done that. I don’t want to come; I just want to go back to my room.” The tables have been set with the tools of our first felting class: needles, foam cushions, colors of wool. Art books for inspiration, examples from past students are presented. Snippets of mumbles cover the floor and fill the air. As facilitators, there are no judgements. We invite, encourage and support whatever is arising.
Chairs are adjusted. Walkers are put to the side. I give a short demonstration and caregivers scurry to get people started. No resistance. All hurriedness subsides and calm reigns over our newly inducted artists into the world of felting and fibers. Some just want to watch. Everything is acceptable. All are appreciated in whatever way works for them. While art examples are given for inspiration, a reference point of sorts, most of the participants interpret in a personal fashion and dive right into the colors.
We celebrate unique creations. Yes. We are all breathing in an atmosphere where all are recognized as the elegant sketches of generosity.
*** If you would like to donate to this uplifting work, Click on Shop in the main menu at the top and then click on Donations, Thank you for your suppor.
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As a fiber artist, I have been exploring art expressions with elders in Independent Living, Assisted Living and persons living in Memory Care for over 10 years. If you are interested in programs for your facility or individuals, please contact me at aneeshaparrone@yahoo.com with Art with Elders in the content box. If you would like to donate to this endeavor, I am very interested in support and you may donate in the shop. This will help defray the cost of supplies and support exhibitions. Thank you.